Manchester United Women – An Introduction to the New Devils in Town

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE NEW DEVILS IN TOWN

History is being made as Casey Stoney leads Manchester United Women into their inaugural campaign

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If you’re new to the women’s game, let us tell you all you need to know

COME ON YOU REDS!

PLAYER PROFILES

Meet the squad

GOALKEEPERS

Introducing the United players out to make an impression in this landmark campaign...

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Emily Ramsey

Fran Bentley

Previously a United Regional Talent Club (RTC) player, Ramsey arrived from Liverpool. An England youth goalkeeper at 17, she has huge potential. “Emily can achieve whatever she wants and we will support her to get there,” says head coach Casey Stoney of her no.13, who is a great distributor of the ball.

An England youth international who has arrived from Manchester City, Bentley is another 17-year-old keeper with a very bright future ahead of her.

“I’m really pleased Fran made the decision to come to United,” says Stoney. “She is a great character and has a huge amount of potential.”

Siobhan Chamberlain An experienced international who played in both the last World Cup and European Championship. Stoney says: “Siobhan’s experience will be vital with the youthful look of our squad. She’s a real team player and a very driven individual.

She’s the thinker of the team.”

PLAYER PROFILES

DEFENDERS

2 Martha Harris PFA Young Player of the Year in 2014, Harris competed in the Under-20 World Cup in Canada that year, and can play as left or right full-back. “Martha has had some fantastic seasons at full-back and adds real energy to our team,” says the boss. “She’s one of the best 1v1 defenders around.”

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3 4 Amy Turner A senior international with incredible drive to win, Turner is a versatile defender. Stoney says: “I was really pleased when Amy decided to sign.

She will drive our standards and keep the aggression on the pitch. Her ability to play out from the back was a key reason for us wanting her on board.”

Alex Greenwood An England international with a fine left foot, Greenwood was once named Young International Player of the Year. She also competed in the 2015 World Cup and 2017 European Championship.

“Signing Alex was very significant for us,” says Stoney. “She is an experienced international and is one of the best left-footed players in the game – that will be vital to the way we want to play.”

PLAYER PROFILES

12 Naomi Hartley

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DEFENDERS

An Under-17 international who spent her youth years at Manchester United RTC, she’s a strong presence at the back. Stoney says: “It’s great to be able to bring Naomi home. She has so much potential and I can’t wait to see how much we can develop her. She is fearless in her game.”

20 Kirsty Smith Scottish international Kirsty can play on either side of the defence at full-back, and is capable of dominating the touchline. “Kirsty is a versatile full-back who is very quick and will add great pace to our team,” says Stoney. “She is a focused and positive young woman.”

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Lucy Roberts Another Under-17 international, who has signed from Liverpool, incredibly Lucy’s great-great-grandfather Charlie Roberts was the first-ever captain to lead a Manchester United team out at Old Trafford. Stoney says: “Lucy is a very focused young woman with big aspirations in the game.”

PLAYER PROFILES

MIDFIELDERS

6 Aimee Palmer Aimee turned 18 this summer, but has a maturity way beyond her years.

An Under-18 youth international, she’s a holding midfielder with a great passing range. Stoney says: “She has the ability to change a game with a pass. I’m delighted she decided on United, there is so much more to come from her.”

8 Mollie Green A former youth international, Mollie is a midfielder with excellent technical ability, who has arrived from Everton.

Stoney says: “Mollie was one of my first signings. She has great technical ability, a great character and is a really good team player. She’s a midfielder who has the ability to change games.”

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Katie Zelem Signed from Juventus having previously played for Liverpool after leaving United’s Centre of Excellence, Katie is a very technical midfielder who likes scoring goals. “I’m really glad we have been able to bring Katie back,” says Stoney. “She’s a great player and fantastic character to have in the squad.”

PLAYER PROFILES

MIDFIELDERS

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Charlie Devlin

Lizzie Arnot

Ella Toone

Another England youth international who has previously played for Arsenal and Millwall, Charlie has the ability to link the play in the middle. Stoney says: “Charlie is a fantastic character.

At only 20 I can’t wait to see what she can achieve. She’s a technical ­midfielder who can influence games.”

Lizzie is a Scottish international who is great with the ball at her feet, and can run for the full 90 minutes.

Stoney says: “Lizzie’s energy and enthusiasm for the game is infectious.

Her ability on the wing ­­to get at the opposition will be very ­ entertaining and exciting to watch.”

Ella, 18, is an exciting wide player signed from Manchester City, having previous been on the books of United’s RTC and Blackburn. “She is a youth international with plenty of talent,” says Stoney. “Ella can play anywhere in ­attacking areas. She is dynamic and will add to our positive philosophy.”

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Lauren James

Millie Turner

Leah Galton

Still only 16, Lauren is the youngest member of the squad. Comfortable with the ball at her feet, her passing is her strength. Stoney says: “Lauren has the potential to do whatever she wants to do with hard work. She is technically very gifted and also the baby of our squad. A great addition from Arsenal.”

Millie signs from Bristol City, where she was captain. “Her signing was a big one for us,” says Stoney. “She has great ability on the ball and can defend very well, which will complement our style of play.” Another who was once part of United’s girls’ set-up, Millie can play at the back or in midfield.

A direct wide forward, Leah has a sweet left foot. Aged 24, she’s an ex-England youth international who has signed from Bayern Munich. Casey Stoney says: “Left-footers are rare and good ones even more so. Having Leah gives us ­really good balance and the opportunity to attack quickly down both sides.”

PLAYER PROFILES

Jess Sigsworth An England international from Under-17 to Under-23 level, Jess was WSL2’s top scorer last season, netting 15 for Doncaster Rovers Belles. “Jess Sigsworth knows nothing but the goal,” says Stoney of her quick, direct no.9. “She has an unbelievable eye for goal and an attitude and drive to succeed.”

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18 Kirsty Hanson The Scottish youth international also signed from Doncaster after winning WSL2 last season. “I am delighted we got the signature of Kirsty,” says Stoney of the winger. “With the way we want to play most defenders will struggle to deal with her ability to go 1v1, as well as her pace.”

FORWARDS

19 Ebony Salmon Blessed with an abundance of pace, Ebony was signed from Aston Villa and at only 17 has a very exciting future.

Stoney says: “I was delighted to sign such a young exciting forward with so much potential. Ebony has deadly pace and the ability to finish. I’m excited to see what she can achieve with us.”

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CASEY STONEY

Casey’s journey From the youth ranks at Chelsea to head coach at Manchester United, via 130 caps for the Lionesses and leading out Team GB at the London Olympics, here’s how Stoney became a legend of the women’s game...

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CASEY STONEY

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ince her first steps in the game, signing for Chelsea Ladies at the age of 12, Casey Stoney has reached heights that very few can match in women’s football in this country.

As captain of the England women’s team, she became just the fifth player to make over 100 appearances for the Lionesses, representing her country 130 times before retiring. Stoney played an integral part in England’s rise up the world rankings, with a third-placed finish in the 2015 Women’s World Cup one of the highlights.

As a full-back or central defender, Casey represented senior teams at Arsenal, Charlton, Chelsea, Lincoln and Liverpool in a club career that spanned 20 years, before retiring in 2018 to become a coach.

Born in Basildon, Essex, Stoney was signed by Chelsea in 1994. After rising through the youth ranks with the Blues, she left the club in 1999 to join fellow London club, Arsenal. Her talent at club level was soon noticed and she made her senior debut for the England national team against France in 2000, aged just 18.

Having played every game during the 2000/01 season, when Arsenal won the Treble, Stoney felt it was time for a new challenge. After three successful seasons with the Gunners, she signed for Charlton in the summer of 2002. Casey had an excellent first season with the Addicks, captaining the team to their first FA Women’s Cup final, where they were defeated by her former club Arsenal. Silverware did soon follow, though, with Charlton winning the Premier League Cup in 2004, followed by the FA Women’s Cup in 2005. In the league, the Addicks pushed for the Women’s Premier League title, finishing second in 2004 and 2005 before

consecutive third-placed finishes in 2006 and 2007. During this period, Stoney received her first start for the Lionesses, against Norway in 2002, and she scored her first international goal against Portugal in 2005. While she was an unused substitute in the European Championship that year, Stoney became a key member of the England squad that reached the 2007 Women’s World Cup – England’s first appearance on the world stage for 12 years. There, the Lionesses finished second in the group stage, before being beaten in a tough last-16 tie against the USA. She was one of only four England players to feature in every minute in the tournament.

Following Charlton’s relegation from the Premier League in 2007, their women’s

team was disbanded as part of a series of cutbacks. This led to Stoney ­returning to her childhood club, Chelsea, along with fellow England internationals Eniola Aluko and Siobhan Chamberlain. They were joined by USA World Cup winner, Lorrie Fair, making for a formidable starting XI. But while the Blues had the talent, the trophies did not arrive and after a fifth-placed finish in 2008 and a title challenge failing to materialise in 2009, manager Steve Jones departed.

Stoney – still only 26 – became Chelsea’s player-manager for the rest of the campaign, which ended with a third-placed finish, behind Everton and champions Arsenal.

While at Chelsea, Casey also won the FA International Player of the Year award in 2008.

Above Showing her natural leadership while at Charlton Left In her early days as a Lioness; going up against her former club with Lincoln in 2013; London 2012 would end at the quarter-final stage for Casey and Team GB

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CASEY STONEY

Show us your medals!

Stoney’s silverware haul…

FA WOMEN’S PREMIER LEAGUE NATIONAL DIVISION: 2000/01, 2001/02 FA WOMEN’S CUP: 2000/01, 2004/05 (pictured), 2013/14, 2015/16 FA WOMEN’S PREMIER LEAGUE CUP: 1999/00, 2000/01, 2003/04, 2005/06

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Having educated the next generation of female footballers since she was 17, her move into coaching came as no surprise to anyone With England, Stoney again made it to a European Championship in 2009, playing at left-back for Hope Powell’s team. Despite a suspension in the group stage, she returned and helped the Lionesses earn a silver medal, losing to Germany in the Helsinki final.

With the formation of the Women’s Super League in 2011, Casey decided to leave Chelsea, joining Lincoln Ladies after being given the opportunity to train full-time. In three seasons with Lincoln, the defender made 38 league appearances, scoring one goal and claiming a WSL Cup runners-up medal in 2013, where Lincoln lost 2-0 to Arsenal.

Having converted to a centre-back, Stoney captained England to the 2011 World Cup quarter-finals in Germany. Highly consistent at the back, she featured in every match, as England beat eventual world champions Japan, before a painful penalty shoot-out defeat to France in the last eight.

With the 2012 Olympic Games being held in London, an 18-player women’s team was put together, which Stoney was awarded the captaincy for. There she led Team GB to the quarter-finals of the competition, scoring in the second group-stage match against Cameroon before featuring in a memorable 1-0 victory against Brazil in front of over 72,000 fans at Wembley Stadium.

Twelve years after she originally left Arsenal, Stoney left Lincoln Ladies and re-signed for the Gunners in 2014, citing her desire to win trophies. This was duly delivered with Arsenal

winning the FA Women’s Cup in 2014 and 2016, with a 2015 WSL Cup triumph sandwiched in between.

During Stoney’s time at Arsenal, England reached the semi-finals of the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada. Despite just missing out on the final, England won their third-place play-off against Germany. This was also the year in which she received an MBE for services to football – a very proud moment for Casey that also highlighted how far the women’s game had progressed.

After two WSL seasons with Liverpool – a period that also saw her be part of England’s squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2017 Euros – Stoney announced her retirement from playing, and her move into

FA WOMEN’S LEAGUE CUP 2015 FA INTERNATIONAL PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARD: 2007/08

coaching, in February this year. She soon joined Phil Neville’s coaching set-up with England, with the aim of helping the Lionesses qualify for the 2019 Women’s World Cup. Having educated the next generation of female footballers since she was 17, her move into coaching came as no surprise to anyone.

Previously Casey had worked at the David Beckham Academy for two years, and had coached at a number of WSL clubs, including Chelsea’s U18 academy, Lincoln’s U17s and Arsenal Centre of Excellence U12s.

She had also served as the academy assistant coach at Charlton Athletic.

Such experience, accrued across three decades, made her the ideal candidate to lead United Women into an exciting new era.

Top Posing with her PFA Special Achievement Award plate during this year’s PFA Awards Left Receiving her MBE from the Princess Royal at Buckingham Palace in 2015

UNITED HISTORY

Another club landmark...

Casey Stoney makes history as the first ever boss of Manchester United Women, opening the latest chapter in the long-running story of the Reds

1878 The wagon and carriage workers of

the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway’s depot in Newton Heath, east Manchester, decide to form a cricket and football team, to be known as Newton Heath (LYR) Cricket and Football Club, quickly shortened to Newton Heath.

1902 Facing closure due to financial

­ roblems, Newton Heath is taken over by p local businessmen and the club’s name is changed. Manchester United is born.

1908 Having been promoted to the

top flight in 1906, two years later the club celebrates its first ever major trophy, as First Division champions.

1910 United move into their new home, as Old Trafford stadium hosts its first match, between the Reds and Liverpool.

1945 October of this year sees the

club’s post-War rebuilding process herald a new manager... a 36-year-old Scotsman called Matt Busby.

1953 United win the first

ever FA Youth Cup, featuring many of the lads who would go on to become known as the Busby Babes.

1968 A landmark year in

the club’s history as United become the first English team to win the European Cup, the most prized competition in club football.

1986 Another Scotsman takes charge in the Old Trafford hotseat – and he’s another who would change the face of Manchester United forever... welcome Alex Ferguson.

1999 United become the first – and to date, only – English side to lift the Treble, winning the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in the same season.

2010 Manchester United celebrates 100 years of Old Trafford, by now the biggest club stadium in the UK.

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THE HEAD COACH

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THE HEAD COACH

“This is the biggest club I’ve ever been involved in” Why did you choose Manchester United?

Lots of different reasons, one being that you can’t hide away from the fact that Manchester United are the biggest club in the world. The fact that they are going to have a women’s team and I’m going to be able to introduce that from scratch, to build a team, build a philosophy, with the biggest club in the world... there’s no more exciting opportunity.

Was it difficult to leave your post with Phil Neville at England?

Yeah, obviously it was a big decision for me to do that. Phil’s been fantastic with me, he’s a great coach, a great manager, but he really encouraged me to take this opportunity. He knows what a club it is, he knows the fantastic opportunity it is. After 18 years of playing and now coaching it’s a big move to step away, but it’s the right move. It’s the right opportunity at the right time with such a great club.

How big a challenge is it to start managing a newly formed side?

For me, it’s an opportunity to form something, to mould a team my own way, to get the players in, coach them, work with them and create something from scratch. It is really exciting. I truly believe that Manchester United have the ability to change the face of women’s football forever.

How much is your experience going to help you?

I’ve learnt so much throughout the years of playing. I’ve played 18 years of international football, I’ve been at so many different clubs under so many different coaches and managers. I’ve coached for 17 years because when I was growing up you had to have a job, so my job the whole time was coaching at the teams I was working at. I’ve had loads of positive experiences and even when you have

Welcome to Manchester United, Casey Stoney.

Here, the head coach spells out her vision for the campaign ahead...

negative ones, it’s an opportunity to learn. I won’t ever forget those lessons, good and bad. I’ll take them with me on my journey.

Many girls have previously had to leave United’s youth system if they wanted to go further in the game...

Yes, and that never has to happen again.

United never have to lose a player because there wasn’t a pathway for them. The pathway is there now. I’m a big believer in that. Whether it’s an Under-10, Under-12, Under-14 player, right the way through to seniors, the pathway should be visible. If they can see it they can believe in it and we give them the opportunity to achieve it and come on the journey. An Under-10 player in 10 years’ time should be in the first team.

How important is it that the biggest team in the land embraces women’s football?

It’s huge. It was the main reason I took the opportunity because I believe that Manchester United are going to do it properly. They’re going to invest in the women’s game, and they have the opportunity to change the face of women’s football. It’s the biggest club in the world. The players are excited, the women’s game is excited and it’s a massive journey to go on, but an exciting one.

Do you expect a senior Manchester United team to help the national team?

For me it’s going to be huge if we can produce players of the future that can go on and represent England. We want to leave the same legacy in the women’s game at Manchester United as the men’s game has.

Do you know Manchester well?

I’m going to need a guide to show me around! No, I know it a little bit, I don’t live too far anyway. It’s a fantastic city and the fan base is huge here. If we can get some of those watching the women’s team, it’s going to be great.

Are you looking forward to working at The Cliff over in Salford?

Yeah, definitely. I was fortunate enough to work with Eric Harrison and he was a big mentor for me when I worked at the David Beckham Academy. He spoke about the amount of work that went on and the history there and the players that came out of there. So to be able to be part of that history, it’s a dream come true.

What springs to mind when you think of the words ‘Manchester United’?

Winning. Success. Legacy. It’s the biggest club that I’ve ever been involved in and I’ve been involved with some big clubs. But to be able to be involved here and have a women’s team, it’s just going to take women’s football to a whole new level.

What’s your ultimate ambition for the club?

My ultimate aim is to grow this team so that every little girl growing up dreams that when she’s older, she wants to play for Manchester United, because they’re the most successful team in women’s football.

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WILLIE KIRK

THE ASSISTANT COACH

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“I know what it takes to gain promotion from this league” A

ppointed to be Casey Stoney’s no.2 in June, Willie Kirk brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge that could prove vital for United’s newly formed team.

The 40-year-old Scot began his coaching career with Livingston, where he worked with the club’s various youth sides.

Kirk moved to Hibernian in 2009, initially as an Academy coach but was soon ­appointed as the ladies’ head coach.

During his first season in charge of Hibs, Kirk led them to the Scottish Cup in 2010 and followed that with a League Cup triumph in 2011. Two years later, Hibs finished second and Willie won the Scottish Women’s Football Manager of the Year award.

“I thought we were quite successful,” he said, reflecting on his time at Hibs when giving his first interview at United.

“I still think we could have been more ­successful, but we set a really good ­foundation for the club to go and build on.”

Kirk departed Hibs in 2014, to take up a role with the Scottish FA as their high performance

Having already taken one club into the top flight, assistant coach Willie Kirk is well up for the challenge of doing it all over again…

Kirk stepped down from his role at Bristol City in May

football manager. Just over a year later he was on the move again, this time becoming Bristol City Women’s head coach.

United’s new assistant led ‘the Vixens’ to promotion in 2016, then kept the team up for the ­following two Women’s Super League ­campaigns. “I have a lot of fond memories from there,” Kirk recalls of his time in the South West. “We had relegation, we had promotion, we changed the name of the club, we went full-time – there was so much that happened in that three years, but I think all of it has been building blocks to get the move to such a big club like this.”

“I know what it takes to gain promotion.

I know how tough this league is and that was two years ago, it’s only got tougher.

“I’ve been through the pitfalls, been through that whole experience of getting results when we need it, of getting results when you’re not playing well, of capitalising on the runs of form when you are playing well, of the obvious down days when you drop points in the last minute. Hopefully that experience will help Casey and the team.”

Mutual respect What Willie and Casey had to say about each other…

Kirk: “To have the chance to work with Casey and be part of a team that is being set up from scratch is an opportunity not to be missed. United is renowned for ­developing

young talent and I know our skills and experience will complement each other.”

Stoney: “Willie is a fantastic appointment

and has a ­proven track record of ­developing young ­players. I think we’ll have the ­opportunity to build ­something very special at Manchester United.”

THE ASSISTANT COACH

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“It’s the most perfect decision I could have made” Skipper Alex Greenwood on leaving Liverpool for United, and an emotional meeting with the boss as she was handed the armband...

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What were your thoughts when you heard Manchester United would be launching a women’s team this season?

I think it was a long time coming. I was kind of expecting it, but it’s fantastic. I think it brings great rivalry to the WSL and the Championship.

What a team to welcome to the league!

What were the factors in your decision to join United?

There were a fair few! For me, the biggest one was Casey [Stoney]. She has unbelievable experience in the game. I’ve played with her, fortunately, at both club and country level and the amount I learned from her during that time was unbelievable. For her to be my manager now is very exciting. Another factor is the club itself. It has a massive history, and if we can be a part of that then it’s going to be very exciting.

How does it feel to be part of this new venture?

So exciting. The girls are buzzing; it’s such a fantastic thing to be a part of. We’re creating history as we’re speaking. To be a part of that is exciting and the future is just so bright for me and the team.

Did it take much convincing for you to make the move, because you are used to playing in the WSL and you’re going to play in the Championship next season?

Yeah, I think it did. It was a hard decision.

To other people, it will be like I’m stepping

Putting in the hard yards in training ahead of a first campaign for Manchester United Women

back. However, I know the conversations I’ve had within the club, and with Casey, and the ambitions of this club are extraordinary.

That made up the reasons for me leaving the WSL to come to the Championship.

Without doubt, it’s the most perfect decision I could have made.

How big an honour is it not only to be playing in the first Manchester United women’s team, but also leading the side out as captain?

It’s an honour, it really is. I’m so proud to be captain of this team, and what a talented team I can say I captain. When Casey told me, I got quite emotional about it, but I’m so ready for this challenge. Maybe dropping down the league, people might think it’s going backwards. But it’s nothing but forwards for me, to lead Manchester United into what could be greatness is an honour.

You’ve amassed a lot of experience in your young career so far, including a memorable World Cup in 2015. How much confidence did that give you, and how will that experience help you live with the pressures of wearing the Manchester United badge on your shirt?

At 24, I’ve had some fantastic experiences.

Winning bronze at the World Cup in 2015 is what the Lionesses are currently remembered for. To go to the European Championship last year and get to a semi-final again was a fantastic experience. Now I want to lead this team and do it the right way. I’ll be an honest captain – I’ll give honest feedback – but also expect it back. When I do meet up with England, I’m going there to be a starting player and a no.3.

Describe yourself as a player…

I think I’m a young, mature player, if that makes sense. I am still young but I am mature; I have a lot of experience. I’m honest, it’s a given that I’ll always work hard and I back myself in technical ability. I’m confident in myself.

Finally, what are your goals for 2018/19?

There are many personal goals, to achieve things I haven’t achieved yet. I am going to put the armband on, so that brings another goal.

Consistency, with more goals, but for the team, ultimately, it’s to go back to WSL1. First and foremost, that is the goal and we’ll take it from there. I think it’s going to be quite exciting.

THE CAPTAIN

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GUIDE TO WOMEN’S GAME

KEY QUESTIONS If you’re new to the women’s game, worry not – here’s the background to the league, cups, big-name players and England’s national team…

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England manager Neville points the way to next summer’s World Cup in France

Former Red Christiansen went on to play for Everton, Birmingham and Manchester City before joining Lyon this summer

The FA Women’s Super League is only seven years young. How was ­women’s football in England structured beforehand?

Before the FAWSL launched in 2011, the league was run in a pyramid format, with three divisions making up the pyramid: the FA Women’s Premier League (National) at the top, with the Northern and Southern divisions on equal footing, forming the second tier. This structure was in place from 1994, the year the FA took over administration of the Women’s National League and League Cup competition from the Women’s Football Association, who launched a national league formed of 24 clubs in 1991. In 1997, the FA outlined plans to develop the women’s game from grassroots to elite level and the following year the first 20 Centres of Excellence were established.

United begin 2018/19 in the second tier.

What’s the back-story to this division?

The league structure expanded in 2014 with the creation of FAWSL 2 and the introduction of promotion and relegation. Nine teams were awarded places in FAWSL 2, with the 10th league spot being taken by a relegated team from the eight-strong FAWSL 1. Doncaster Rovers Belles were the team to drop down, their spot being taken by the revamped, re-launched Manchester City Women. From this season, of course, FAWSL 2 is known as the FA Women’s Championship.

How did last season pan out in the two divisions?

Chelsea finished the league season unbeaten, winning 13 matches and drawing five, to finish six points clear of Manchester City. Doncaster Rovers Belles romped to the second-tier title but have since withdrawn from the FAWSL altogether for financial reasons. The Belles – a founder member of the FAWSL and historically one of the most successful clubs in the country – would have remained in the second tier regardless, as they couldn’t afford a licence to play in the top flight, which now requires clubs to have the resources to run an academy.

GUIDE TO WOMEN’S GAME

Bronze (right of picture) claimed a gold medal in the Champions League final with Lyon

the 25-year-old striker scored 25 goals in 36 appearances. Though she no longer plays in FAWSL, England defender Lucy Bronze is definitely one to keep an eye on within the wider women’s game. The former Sunderland, Everton, Liverpool and Manchester City right-back has had an incredible first season with Lyon, helping them to the French league title and UEFA Champions League.

KIRBY WON NEARLY EVERY INDIVIDUAL ACCOLADE GOING IN 2017/18, INCLUDING THE INAUGURAL FOOTBALL WRITERS’ WOMEN’S FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR AWARD Which cups do the teams also compete for – and who won them last season?

Chelsea secured the first half of their Double with an impressive display in the FA Cup final in May, beating Arsenal 3-1. The Gunners’ goal that day was also the only goal the Blues conceded throughout the whole competition.

Arsenal did take home some silverware last season, though. They won the FA Continental League Cup (turn the page

for more on that competition), extending their love affair with knockout competitions.

What about individual honours... who were the leading ladies of 2017/18?

Fran Kirby (pictured above) won nearly every individual accolade going in 2017/18, including the inaugural Football Writers’ Women’s Footballer of the Year Award. A key component of Chelsea’s Double-winning side,

United’s women’s team is new, but are there any notable professionals at other clubs who played for the Reds at junior level?

Fellow Lyon midfielder Izzy Christiansen began her youth career at United. The 26-year-old from Macclesfield won every domestic trophy with Manchester City before moving to France, was named PFA Women’s Player of the Year in 2015/16 and is now a regular senior England international after making her way through the youth teams.

The women’s national side has a strong connection with United, with Phil Neville the current head coach. How are England faring under the former Red? Neville has made a decent start to life as England boss, including a fine 4-1 win against France in his first match, and a 3-1 victory over Russia in Moscow in June to move England back to the top of their World Cup qualifying group. His approach is one United fans will appreciate, with plenty of energy to his team’s attacking play. Indeed, Phil thinks England can go all the way at next summer’s World Cup in France... let’s hope he’s right!

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TROPHY WINNERS

Roll of honour

Recalling the winners of four competitions in the ­w omen’s game – how long until the name ‘­Manchester ­U nited’ can be added to one of these lists?

Arsenal’s Ellen White helps fire the Gunners to the first WSL title in 2011

UEFA Women’s Champions League Previously known as the UEFA Women’s Cup, Europe’s top women’s trophy was rebranded the UEFA Women’s Champions League in 2009, at which point runners-up from the continent’s top eight ranked nations were granted a space in the competition alongside the champions. French side Lyon are the heavyweights at this level, winning it five times, ahead of Frankfurt (four).

Arsenal have won it once, in 2007, with the Gunners reaching the semi-finals five times. Manchester City, Birmingham and Chelsea have also reached the last four, each on one occasion.

LAST FIVE FINALS 2013/14 Wolfsburg 4-3 Tyreso 2014/15 Frankfurt 2-1 PSG 2015/16 Lyon 1-1 Wolfsburg (Lyon win 4-3 on pens) 2016/17 Lyon 0-0 PSG (Lyon win 7-6 on pens) 2017/18 Lyon 4-1 Wolfsburg (aet)

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Chelsea lift the trophy in May in front of a record crowd for a women’s final

Women’s Super League Founding members and first winners...

There were eight founding members to the WSL in 2011: Arsenal, Birmingham City, Bristol Academy, Chelsea, Doncaster Rovers, Everton, Lincoln Ladies and Liverpool.

Arsenal won the first two editions of the new league (which replaced the FA Women’s Premier League), extending their run of consecutive league title wins to eight. The London club remain the most decorated women’s team in England (as record holders for FA Women’s Premier League, FA W ­ omen’s Cup, FA WSL Cup, FA Women’s Premier League Cup, FA Women’s Community Shield and London County FA Women’s Cup wins), although a new generation of champions has come to the fore since the Gunners last won the league in 2012.

Clubs to have had the biggest impact since then...

Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool lead the way since the 2011 restructure, each being crowned champions twice. Manchester City Women went unbeaten in the league in 2016 to secure their first FAWSL title.

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CHAMPIONS RUNNERS-UP

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017/18

Arsenal Arsenal Liverpool Liverpool Chelsea Manchester City Chelsea

Birmingham Birmingham Bristol Academy Chelsea Manchester City Chelsea Manchester City

(Chelsea winners of 2017 WSL Spring Series, an interim competition to bridge gap between 6th and 7th seasons)

TROPHY WINNERS

There’s just no stopping Lyon in the Champions League

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Doncaster won promotion, but have since dropped down to the third tier

FA Women’s Cup Starting out in 1970/71 as the Mitre ­Challenge Trophy, it was rebranded in 1993 when the Football Association took control. Arsenal have been the dominant force ever since, with four successes since the start of the WSL era taking them to 14 overall. They were only runners-up to Chelsea this year, however, in the fourth final to be held at Wembley since the showpiece tie moved there in 2015. The final attendance has increased year-on-year in that time, from 30,710 to 45,423.

LAST EIGHT FINALS 2011 Arsenal 2-0 Bristol Academy (Ricoh Arena) 2012 Birmingham 2-2 Chelsea (Ashton Gate) (aet, Birmingham win on penalties) 2013 Arsenal 3-0 Bristol Academy (Keepmoat Stadium) 2014 Arsenal 2-0 Everton (Stadium MK) 2015 Chelsea 1-0 Notts County (Wembley) 2016 Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea (Wembley) 2017 Manchester City 4-1 Birmingham City (Wembley) 2018 Chelsea 3-1 Arsenal (Wembley)

WSL2/ Championship Established in 2014 and known as WSL2 until this summer, the second tier had 10 teams every season until increasing to 11 ahead of 2018/19. The number of teams promoted has varied, however, on account of the top-flight’s restructuring, as well as WSL2 clubs needing to meet certain requirements off the pitch.

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WINNERS RUNNERS-UP

2014 2015 2016 2017/18

Sunderland Reading Yeovil Town Doncaster R’s Belles

Doncaster R’s Belles Doncaster R’s Belles Bristol City Brighton & Hove Albion

(Everton winners of 2017 WSL2 Spring Series, an interim competition to bridge gap between 3rd and 4th seasons)

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LEAGUE CUP

Stoney gets both hands on the weighty trophy in 2015, at New York Stadium in Rotherham

Previous finals

LEAGUE CUP AMBITIONS For United Women, the 2018/19 journey begins in the Continental Tyres League Cup. From its unique format to the dominance of two clubs, here’s the lowdown…

T

he equivalent of the League Cup in the men’s game, the Continental Tyres League Cup got the women’s season started this summer, with two matchdays in the schedule ahead of the league campaign commencing in September.

But when it comes to the format, the competition bears little similarity to its men’s equivalent, with a group stage – made up of four groups of five or six teams – deciding which sides progress to the quarter-finals.

There is no double-header format for each team in the group stage, with the Reds facing

just two opponents here at Leigh Sports Village – Reading on matchday two, followed

by Durham on matchday four (5 December).

We’re not involved in matchday three, while matchday five will take us back to Merseyside to battle it out with Everton, following the opener at Prenton Park against Liverpool in what was United Women’s first ever fixture.

With Everton, Liverpool and Reading all established top-flight sides, Durham and the Reds could have work to do if they are to seal a last-eight spot by finishing in the top two spots, but United head coach Casey Stoney

2011 Arsenal 4-1 Birmingham 2012 Arsenal 1-0 Birmingham 2013 Arsenal 2-0 Lincoln Ladies 2014 Manchester City 1-0 Arsenal 2015 Arsenal 3-0 Notts County 2016 Manchester City 1-0 Birmingham* 2017/18 Arsenal 1-0 Manchester City (*after extra-time)

25 and her charges will no doubt be up for the challenge of going head-to-head with teams from the division above.

Should we progress out of Group Two North (with so many of the competition’s 22 entrants being situated in the south, such a group is unfamiliar territory for today’s Berkshire-based opponents), the knockout stages will await in January. That could bring the possibility of a draw against one of the two dominant clubs in this competition: Arsenal and Manchester City.

In the seven years of the cup, Arsenal have won it five times, with City emerging victorious in two. Indeed, the two clubs met in last season’s final, which the Gunners won 1-0 thanks to a goal from Vivianne Miedema.

This season might be a first assault on the trophy for the Reds, but we have an experienced winner in the dugout in Stoney, who captained Arsenal in their 2015 triumph.

The United boss came up against current Reds Alex Greenwood (below, left) and Amy Turner that day, who were both representing Notts County as the Gunners won 3-0.

Prepare for penalties!

One rule change introduced at the start of last season is the group-stage shoot-out, so if any of our League Cup ties finish level, there will be spot-kicks.

Both sides are awarded a point for drawing in the 90 minutes, with the shoot-out winner claiming a bonus point. Victory inside 90 minutes and three

points will always be the aim, of course, but don’t be surprised to see the Reds face a tense finale or two from the penalty spot in the months ahead.

UNITED GIRLS

Goalkeeper Fran Bentley launches the ball clear of her penalty area during her first spell

Here’s determined defender Naomi Hartley wearing the famous red shirt back in the 2015/16 season

Emily Ramsey was another to stand between the sticks while part of our Regional Talent Club

Grassroots g For a few members of the Reds’ squad, this summer marked a return to the club where they had previously excelled as part of United’s youth set-up...

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She may be a forward, but a young Ella Toone was more than happy to take advice from club legend Rio Ferdinand

UNITED GIRLS

Foundation’s fine work within the girls’ game

Forward Kirsty Hanson (red shirt) listens to the coaches at the end of the 2013/14 campaign

United’s associated charity has helped develop many talented teens in recent years, and they can now see a clear pathway to the club’s senior women’s set-up...

s girls

Katie Zelem (right of picture) is all smiles as she meets fellow midfield maestro Paul Scholes

While 2018/19 will see the first professional women’s team bearing the United crest, the club has been heavily involved in girls’ football in recent years.

The Reds have been rolling out a number of highly successful local programmes that have helped to develop talented young girls who have gone on to become international stars in the game.

Manchester United Foundation already runs a number of programmes for female players in schools and communities across Greater Manchester and is partnered with the South Manchester Girls Football League, developing girls’ football at grassroots level.

The Foundation also manages the FA Tier 1 Girls’ Regional

Talent Club (RTC), which provides opportunities for girls to play football at the highest level with the aim of developing international players.

Players receive intensive training and support, along with the chance to compete against other clubs from both across the North West and nationally in competitions. In 2016, the Under-16 team reached the girls’ FA Youth Cup Final for the first time in the club’s history, before winning the league this year.

RTC’s recent history 2015/16 season: FA Girls’ Youth Cup finalists (lost to Arsenal).

2016/17 season: 64 players in the Regional Talent Club, with over 370 players registering for trials ahead of the 2017/18 season.

2017/18 season: FA Youth Cup semi-finalists (lost to Reading).

15 players involved at international level in the 2017/18 season through international caps and training camps: 12 for England and three for Scotland.

Millie Turner’s height and leadership made her a real asset to the young Reds

2017/18 season: 85 players registered, with the trials ahead of the 2018/19 season expected to receive a record number of players.

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OPPOSITION

Introducing the 10 teams the Reds will find themselves up against in the Championship in 2018/19, from their key players to who’s been in the news in pre-season...

Know your rivals!

OPPOSITION

Aston Villa Ladies WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: It’s a team that’s been going since 1973, although it only became officially affiliated with Aston Villa in 1996, having previously been known as Solihull FC. Winners of the 2012/13 FA Women’s Premier League Cup (for teams in tiers three and four within the league pyramid), the following year Villa joined WSL2, finishing 4th, 5th, then 6th ahead of last term’s disappointing 9th-place finish (in the 10-team division). Under the direction of new head coach Gemma Davies, who replaces Iain Sankey, the ‘Lady Villans’ will be hoping to accrue far more than 11 points in 2018/19.

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: As well as the appointment of 25-year-old Davies – who crosses the Birmingham divide, having been assistant coach at Birmingham City Ladies last season – Villa will be out to boost attendances by returning to their home city. Having played at Tamworth FC in recent years, they will now be based at the home of Boldmere St Michaels FC in Sutton Coldfield (postcode B73 5RY) for all their

home games, a stadium less than four miles away from Villa Park. On the pitch, Beth Merrick – the club’s second-highest scorer last term – has departed Villa after close to 13 years with the club, with a replacement for the flying winger just one of the many items in Davies’s in-tray as she looks to rebuild the squad ahead of their league opener, on home soil against United.

Alison Hall, Hollie Gibson, Sophie Haywood and Nadine Hanssen were all announced as new signings in early August, with midfielder Kerri Welsh named club captain.

Charlton Athletic Women WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Charlton came into being in 2000, when Croydon Women came under the auspices of Charlton Athletic. Croydon were the reigning English champions at the time, and made a smooth transition to their new name over the next few years, winning the FA Cup in 2005, with future United manager Casey Stoney their captain. Heartache would follow, however, when they were relegated in 2008. They earned promotion in 2011, but saw their application for the Women’s Super League rejected in 2013. In recent years, Charlton have plied their trade in the third tier, playing their matches at Thameshead Town’s Bayliss Avenue. But

having earned promotion to the second tier last term Charlton announced a four-year deal to play their games at Oakwood, the home of Isthmian League side VCD Athletic (postcode DA1 4DN). Other highlights from 2017/18 included ­goalkeeper Katie Startup’s call-up to the England U19 squad and striker Kit Graham’s excellence up front (32 goals in 22 league matches).

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: Gemma Bryan was their first summer signing, returning from Crystal Palace to the club she played for between 2008-12, scoring 63 goals. Midfielder Ellie Bailes also moved from Palace, along with West Ham midfielder Amber Stobbs – and manager Riteesh Mishra feels Stobbs’s experience in the top divisions could be crucial, saying: “She’s got a strong mindset, wants to be coached, and has the potential to be a leader.”

Striker Lily Agg (from Frankfurt) and midfielder Elizabeta Ejupi (Aston Villa) have also signed, with Mishra himself extending his commitment to Charlton.

All in, it’s created a feeling of organisation and stability, as Charlton strive to reach the great heights of their early 2000s period once again.

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OPPOSITION

Durham Women 11 times in a season that also saw her earn a call-up to the England Under-23 squad.

Cr ystal Palace Ladies 30

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: The Eagles were a late addition to the Championship, admitted only after Doncaster Rovers Belles withdrew in order to “ensure their continued viability”.

Palace, who are based at Bromley FC’s Hayes Lane ground (postcode BR2 9EF), had seen their initial bid to join rejected, so were naturally keen to take up the invitation. Palace finished third in the Premier League Southern Division last term, behind champions and local rivals Charlton, as well as C&K Basildon. Palace had the second-best defensive record in the league, conceding just 15 goals in their 22 matches, something which should stand them in good stead for this next challenge. At the heart of that defensive effort was club captain Freya Holdaway, who bounced back in 2017/18 after wrestling with a

long-term injury issue during the previous season. Manager Dean Davenport described her as “a cool yet inspirational presence”, and Holdaway was rewarded for her consistency with a first international call-up for Northern Ireland in February.

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: The Eagles’ late admission to the next tier up was welcomed as great news, but club chairman Richard Spokes admitted it would mean a “chaotic few weeks” of late preparations. But the club had been building in anticipation for this step for years, and had already captured the welcome signings of ex-Millwall skipper and striker Ashlee Hincks – who has represented England – and highly rated 22-year-old defender Hannah MacKenzie, who joined from Tottenham.

Palace have lost both last season’s top scorers, Gemma Bryan and Ellie Bailes, to Charlton, but most of the squad remains in place, and Davenport believes they are ready for the challenge: “We have been adamant in our intention to create a stronger, more versatile squad, irrespective as to which league we are in. Pre-season is going well, and has suddenly taken a new twist!”

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Founded in 2013, this will be a fifth season at this level for the ‘Wildcats’, whose ­fourth-placed finish last term matched their previous best campaign, achieved two years previously.

The North East outfit play their home games at New Ferens Park, located in the Belmont area of Durham (post code DH1 1GG). They certainly provided plenty of entertainment last season – 70 goals were either scored or conceded across their 18 league games – with 21-year-old midfielder Beth Hepple leading the way, netting

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: Hepple was just one of many Wildcats to commit their future to the club over the summer, with manager Lee Sanders working hard behind the scenes.

Scottish striker Zoe Ness – named FA WSL2 Players’ Player of the Year after returning to Durham from a stint in Sweden – also penned a new deal, along with defender and captain Sarah Wilson, as well as numerous others. It’s clearly a harmonious camp, with boss Sanders saying: “We are improving each season and retaining players of quality, and that is imperative as we look at the challenges the new clubs in the Championship will offer.” Among the new faces lining up in Durham’s all-blue kit in 2018/19 will be versatile defender Abby Holmes, who previously played for PEC Zwolle in the Netherlands, and goalkeeper Hannah Reid, signed from Hibernian.

OPPOSITION

Lewes FC Women

Leicester City Women

aware of the challenges his side will face at this higher level in 2018/19, and was quick to recruit some local talent ahead of their pre-season friendlies.

Midfielder Charley Boswell, previously of Portsmouth and Brighton, has joined the club, with new striker Lucy Somes looking like another shrewd addition, having already lined up at this level for now-promoted Brighton. “I had the pleasure of working with Lucy in the past and she has a great touch, can go past players with ease and has an eye for goal,” said Donoghue.

31

patiently been setting up an infrastructure to be rivalled by many, and we are delighted the FA have seen our vision.”

Morgan will be looking to lethal forward Rosie Axten to maintain her scoring rate in the campaign ahead, and she’ll be flanked by the club’s current Player of the Year Leigh Dugmore, making for an attack that could thrive in this division. England youth internationals Taome Oliver and Freda Ayisi were late signings ahead of the big kick-off.

Photography James Boyes

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: Manager John Donoghue, who has led Lewes FC Women’s first team since 2014, is well

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Formed in 2004, the Foxes bounced between the divisions just below this level for their first decade – current England midfielder Jo Potter having a spell with the club in 2010 – but the 2014 promotion of reserves coach Jonathan Morgan to firstteam boss has paid dividends, with the team since making steady progress. Their home is the 1,400-capacity Farley Way Stadium (postcode LE12 8RB), where they’ve proved hard to beat on the artificial pitch since moving there from a more central location in Leicester last summer.

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: Having finished 3rd, then 2nd, in the third-tier’s Northern Division in the past two seasons, the Foxes were finally awarded second-tier status in May. The announcement, eight years on from the club having their first application to play at this level rejected, was met with glee by everyone connected to the Foxes, with manager Morgan speaking for them all. “It’s a fantastic day for this club, and I feel it’s thoroughly deserved,” he said. “We have quietly and

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: It’s been quite a 12 months for the semi-professional side from East Sussex, who made headlines last summer after announcing they would become the first British club to provide equal pay and budgets to their men’s and women’s teams.

Both teams play at the unique Dripping Pan (postcode BN7 2XA) – a ground where you can even watch the action from a beach hut (mini bar of local ale included), while taking in the delightful views of the town’s Norman castle. Nearly 1,000 fans flocked to the Pan for their FA Cup fifth-round tie with Everton last season, and although that momentous day for the club ended in defeat, a few months later the ‘Rookettes’ – who finished 5th in the third tier’s Southern Division – were awarded Championship status on the same day as United.

OPPOSITION

London Bees

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: The Bees have roots dating back to the 1970s, and went through various incarnations before they changed their name from Barnet Ladies FC to the London Bees in 2014 upon joining Women’s Super League 2. Last season was their best yet: the Bees notched more points, scored more goals and conceded fewer goals than ever before, and also finished 6th – a club best. That’s not to say they haven’t punched above their weight before: in 2016, they became the first team from the second tier to reach the semifinals of the FA Cup, where they were beaten by Birmingham. The Bees are now based at The Hive (postcode HA8 6AG), home of Barnet FC and a stadium that is part of a hugely impressive complex. The Bees also have an ever-improving squad. The performances of striker Katie Wilkinson and goalkeeper Nic Hobbs – who both won the league’s Player of the Month award during 2017/18 – as well as top scorer Destiney Toussaint point to another encouraging season.

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: England women’s team legend

Rachel Yankey – who earned 129 caps for the Lionesses – joined the Bees’ coaching staff during the off-season, while goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill was the first acquisition added to the playing squad. Head coach Luke Swindlehurst believes Yankey’s arrival confirms the Bees’ ambition, saying: “I’ve been looking for a coach to help develop the players towards the highest level. Modelling her elite standards will have the positive impact which takes us on to that level.” New signing Quantrill, who joined from Millwall Lionesses, is also confident the team can make another big leap towards the top of the table: “When I spoke to the manager, his ambitions matched what I want to achieve at this club.”

Millwall Lionesses WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Like Doncaster Belles, Millwall Lionesses are one of the most evocative names in women’s football. Founded in 1972, they were the first women’s side to affiliate with a professional men’s team, and a founding member of the Women’s Premier League in 1991. That was the year they won their first FA Cup, too, and they’ve also provided England with some star names since then, including future national boss Hope Powell and local lass Katie Chapman. They started last term with a 12-game unbeaten run, but a three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player and three eventual defeats meant they missed out on second place by one point.

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: Off the pitch, financial concerns have been a big issue for the last couple of years. A crowdfunding appeal was set up to help find support, and subsequently enabled them to obtain a Tier 2 licence for 2018/19. The news that manager Lee Burch

was to leave the club, along with assistant manager Lauren Phillips, means there is plenty of work to do for the new coaching set-up: Chris Phillips, formerly involved in youth development at Arsenal, is first-team coach, with ex-Gunners manager Pedro Martinez Losa the new director of football. Previously based at St Paul’s in Rotherhithe, they will move to National League South club Dartford’s Princes Park this season (postcode DA1 1RT). As the team stay on the lookout for financial support, the departure of 19-year-old Ella Rutherford leaves them with a big hole to fill in attack.

OPPOSITION

Sheffield United Women WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Last term saw the Blades finish third in the FA Women’s Premier League Midlands Division (the fourth level of the women’s pyramid), behind Loughborough Foxes and Burton Albion, but their impressive set-up, which includes a development side and regional talent club, saw them make a big leap to the newly formed Championship – “a momentous day”, according to team manager Carla Ward.

With the Blades’ junior ranks previously producing talents such as Manchester City’s Ellie Roebuck and Chelsea’s Beth England (who spent 2017/18 on loan at Liverpool), keeping hold of such starlets should now prove less of a challenge.

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: Another junior player to have departed, in her case in 2015, was goalkeeper Fran Kitching, but following a commanding season on loan with a struggling Watford side at this level last season, she’s back at her childhood club. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to play for the club at senior level after coming through the Academy at the

age of 10,” said the former Chelsea stopper. “It was a no-brainer really as all my family are Blades.” The recruitment of Kitching wasn’t the only summer news story involving both the Blades and the Blues from west London: both clubs have changed their name, from ‘Ladies’ to ‘Women’. With Sheffield FC withdrawing from the Championship in June due to financial pressures, the newly named side playing across town at Olympic Legacy Park (postcode S9 3TL) will be out to do their city proud.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Spurs Ladies have just one season under their belt in the second tier, but they finished a creditable 7th, proving they can compete at this level. The Lilywhites play their matches at the home of Cheshunt FC in Hertfordshire (postcode EN8 8RU), and after defeat in their first match of the season, against Durham, they were unbeaten in their next five fixtures in all competitions, winning four. A run of seven straight defeats punctured their momentum, but they regathered pace in February with two consecutive victories.

Bright stars such as Bianca Baptiste (top scorer) and leftback Ashleigh Neville (Spurs’ Player of the Year) have made a positive imprint on the league, while Coral Jade-Haines – on loan from Birmingham – earned a call-up to England’s U23s.

STORIES OF THE SUMMER: Veteran keeper Toni-Anne Wayne announced her retirement, which followed the

final match of last season. The 35-year-old stopper completed four seasons with the side, had represented England at U19 and U21 levels earlier in her career, and was widely praised for her influence on the team’s culture. Defender Hannah MacKenzie and striker Katie O’Leary have also departed the club, but manager Karen Hills believes there is much more to come from the current squad, saying: “Our victories over topflight clubs [in cup competitions] show me that these players are nowhere near the end of their journey together.”

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UNITED WOMEN 2018/19 FIXTURES LEAGUE 9 Sep 20 Sep 23 Sep 30 Sep 14 Oct 28 Oct 4 Nov 18 Nov 25 Nov 2 Dec 9 Dec 6 Jan 13 Jan 10 Feb 20 Feb 10 Mar 31 Mar 20 Apr 28 Apr 11 May

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Aston Villa (A) 3pm Sheffield United (H) 7pm London Bees (A) 2pm Durham (H) 12pm Charlton Athletic (H) 12pm Leicester City (A) 2pm Tottenham Hotspur (H) 12pm Crystal Palace (A) 2pm Millwall Lionesses (H) 12pm Lewes (A) 2pm Durham (A) 12pm London Bees (H) 12pm Charlton Athletic (A) 2pm Aston Villa (H) 12pm Sheffield United (A) 12pm Leicester City (H) 12pm Tottenham Hotspur (A) 1pm Crystal Palace (H) 12pm Millwall Lionesses (A) 2pm Lewes (H) 12pm

CUPS 19 Aug 25 Aug 5 Dec 13 Dec 8/9 Jan 3 Feb 5/6 Feb 17 Feb TBC 17 Feb 14 Apr 4 May

Liverpool (A) 2pm [League Cup] Reading (H) 12pm [LC] Durham (H) 7pm [LC] Everton (A) 7pm [LC] LC quarter-finals FA Cup Round 4 LC semi-finals FA Cup Round 5 League Cup final FA Cup quarter-finals FA Cup semi-finals FA Cup final

▲ ▲ ▲ Don’t miss a kick!

How to stay in touch throughout the season…

Social

Website

MUTV

Official app

Inside United

United Review

We’ve recently launched dedicated social media platforms for Manchester United Women on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, so make sure you follow the team’s fortunes throughout this debut campaign, and you can get involved in the conversation at: @manutdwomen

The official website, ManUtd.com – which recently underwent a revamp – is the place to go to for up-tothe-minute match updates and reports, news, interviews and features, as well as squad profiles.

Visit ManUtd.com/ muwomen for all the latest news.

The club’s own television channel will be screening selected live matches and loads of highlights of United Women during the 2018/19 campaign, as well as regular exclusive interviews with head coach Casey Stoney and her squad. For full details on how to subscribe to the channel or stream MUTV online, visit Mutv.com.

Have you downloaded the club’s first ever global mobile app?

If not, why not?

It’s packed full of amazing features and will regularly provide loads of news and info on the women’s team, as well as the most up to date fixture list and all the results.

United’s official magazine will have a monthly round-up of action on the pitch, as well as regular interviews with the manager, coaching staff and players.

The official match programme for the Manchester United men’s team will also keep matchgoing fans at Old Trafford up to speed with all the latest from United Women.

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